This pulled beef sandwich is a cozy meal that’s juicy and full of flavor. The tender beef is slow-cooked until it’s easy to shred and piled high on soft bread.
It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and let’s be real—who can resist that meaty goodness? I love adding some coleslaw on top for extra crunch! Yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal because it becomes tender when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using brisket or a round roast; just remember they may need slight adjustments in cooking time.
Onion: Yellow onions are great for a sweet flavor when sautéed. If you’re out of onions, shallots or even leeks can work as tasty substitutes, bringing a different sweetness.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether sweet, smoky, or tangy. If you prefer homemade, mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. Try mustard-based sauces for a twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds richness. If you’re a cheese lover, experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. Vegan cheese can also be a good substitute for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make Sure My Beef is Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding the beef is one of the highlights of this sandwich. After slow cooking, it should fall apart easily. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Use two forks to pull the beef apart gently. Start at the thicker ends where it’s easiest.
- If the beef feels tough after cooking, it may need more time. Simply return it to the slow cooker with some extra broth until it softens.
- Don’t forget to mix the shredded beef back into the sauce—it helps keep it juicy and flavorful!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 8 sandwich buns (preferably brioche)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pulled beef sandwich takes about 20 minutes to prepare and a slow cooking time of 8 hours. With a little patience, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to enjoy! Perfect for a gathering or a cozy night in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Make sure to coat all sides well, as this will add amazing flavor to your beef!
2. Searing the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef and sear it on all sides until it’s beautifully browned. This step helps to lock in the juices and flavors. After searing, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook it until it becomes translucent—around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell wonderful!
4. Slow Cooking:
Now, place the seared beef in your slow cooker. Top it with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth, BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easy to shred with a fork.
5. Shredding the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it well with the tasty sauce to soak up all those flavors.
6. Melting the Cheese:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Split the sandwich buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Load each bun with a generous scoop of the pulled beef and then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. This is where it gets really cheesy!
7. Broiling the Sandwiches:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This crispy cheese is what we’re aiming for!
8. Assembling the Sandwiches:
Take the sandwiches out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. They will be hot! If you like, you can garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving.
9. Enjoy Your Creation:
Serve your delicious pulled beef sandwiches warm, alongside your favorite side dishes like coleslaw or potato chips. They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just remember that cooking times may vary a little, so check for tenderness as your meat cooks.
What Type of BBQ Sauce Works Best?
Choose a BBQ sauce that suits your taste! Sweet, smoky, or tangy sauces all work well. You can even mix two types for a more complex flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning in the dish if your sauce is particularly sweet or spicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pulled beef a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Just remember to add a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the shredded beef in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
